Tunability of characteristics of novel PMMA/ZnO/SnO <sub>2</sub> (PZS) polymer nanocomposites
Shivratan Saini, S. Z. Hashmi, A.M. Quraishi, S. Dalela, B. L. Choudhary, Shalendra Kumar, M. Ayaz Ahmad, Virat Khanna, P. A. Alvi
Abstract
The present study explores the tunability of the structural, optical, chemical, and electrical properties of novel PMMA/ZnO/SnO₂ (PZS) polymer nanocomposites by systematically varying the composition of ZnO/SnO₂ nanofillers. The PZS polymer nanocomposites were fabricated via an uncomplicated chemical mixing route. The incorporation of ZnO and SnO₂ nanoparticles into the PMMA matrix enhances the material’s multifunctional characteristics, offering tailored structural, optical, and electrical characteristics. Analysis of XRD, FTIR, and Raman spectra confirms the successful integration of the nanofillers without compromising the polymer’s integrity, while UV-Vis spectroscopy reveals a significant modulation in optical bandgap, refractive index, and Urbach energy. Measurements of electrical parameters (i.e. dielectric constant and loss, dielectric modulus, and electrical conductivity) indicate a synergistic effect of ZnO and SnO₂, leading to improved charge transport, making PZS nanocomposites promising for flexible electronics and optoelectronic applications. This work highlights the tunability of PZS nanocomposites as an advanced material system with customisable properties for next-generation functional materials.